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General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Shooto, created by Satoru Sayama (Tiger Mask) in 1985 in Japan, is the world's oldest professional MMA organization. The 6-class hierarchy (from Class D amateur in headgear to Class A professional and World Shooto Champion) evaluates striking, takedowns, Catch Wrestling, and BJJ ground submissions.

1st Level – Class D (Amateur Novice)

Typical gap since previous grade: 3 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic MMA stance with headgear/pads, takedowns, and ground control in Japanese Shooto.

Symbolism & Meaning

Pioneering Japanese professional MMA system founded by Satoru Sayama in 1985.

2nd Level – Class C (Amateur Advanced)

Typical gap since previous grade: 9 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Amateur Shooto tournaments, Catch Wrestling/Muay Thai combos, and Heel-hook leg locks.

Symbolism & Meaning

Deepening transitions from standing strikes into ring submission grappling.

3rd Level – Class B (Semi-Pro)

Typical gap since previous grade: 18 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Semi-pro fights without headgear, Ground and Pound striking control, and clinch knees.

Symbolism & Meaning

Gateway to official professional rankings of Japan Shooto Association (JSA).

4th Level – Class A (Professional)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Full-contact 3x5 min professional bouts at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo.

Symbolism & Meaning

Ranked professional Shooto fighter competing for national titles.

5th Level – Pacific Rim Champion

Pacific Rim ChampRank #5

Typical gap since previous grade: 48 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Regional Shooto championship belt in Asia-Pacific after main event victories.

Symbolism & Meaning

Elite international-grade fighter ready for the world title.

6th Level – World Shooto Champion

World Shooto ChampRank #6

Typical gap since previous grade: 72 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Winning World Shooto Championship belt. Pinnacle of professional Japanese MMA.

Symbolism & Meaning

World Champion = Ring legend inducted into the hall of fame of combat sports.